One focus in the Ashby Group is the synthesis of functionalized dienes with groups ranging from ethers to amines. We have recently reported the use of tertiary amine functionalized poly(isoprene) materials as efficient gene transfection agents at low concentrations and current work is focused on developing guidelines for material design. Group members are also investigating new methods for fabricating poly(thiophene) based organic solar cells, and have developed a method for enhanced processing of poly(thiophene) by functionalizing the aromatic ring to maintain solubility after polymer formation. Films are then able to be solvent cast followed by thermolysis of the functional group to form insoluble films.
The Brookhart Group carries out research in the general area of synthetic and mechanistic organometallic chemistry, with particular emphasis on the application of late metal organometallic complexes in catalysis. Perhaps the most well-known systems are the Ni(II) and Pd(II) α-diimine catalysts, coined as the “Brookhart Catalysts”, used for the polymerization of ethylene. Additionally, new "ligand-free" catalysts have been developed and are under investigation for 1,3-diene polymerization to create highly cis-enchained polymers with rubbery characteristics. Mechanistic investigations include various NMR techniques, low temperature, multi-nuclear, and multi-dimensional, kinetics, and deuterium labeling studies to provide a detailed understanding of catalyst resting states and relative intermediates.
A second major focus concerns studies of C-C bond metathesis with Ir and Rh pincer complexes in efforts to combat the current energy crisis. Alkane metathesis has potentially tremendous applicability via converting low-value alkanes (C5-C8) from the Fisher-Tropsch process into more usable, linear alkanes in the diesel fuel range (C9-C19). The Brookhart Group has recently developed a well-defined and highly efficient tandem catalytic system for the metathesis of n-alkanes, which first effects alkane dehydrogenation and olefin hydrogenation followed by olefin metathesis to selectively afford linear alkane products.
Apart from all the work happening inside the structure, such as with ductwork, electrical, stairs, air handling equipment, and the million valves and pipes that fill the space above the future ceilings, the brickworkers on the outside of the building are quickly climbing up the facade, one row of bricks at a time. The masonry work on both East and West walls are now virtually complete.
These images were taken on August 19th. Roof covering is laid down, and windows are being put in. The connection between Caudill Labs and the new building is now covered and glassed. Next, openings will be made in the walls on the Caudill side to truly connect the new building as shown below. Both external and internal work plans are progressing on schedule.
Connecting walkway from "New Venable" to Caudill Labs
The Science Complex Courtyard with Kenan Labs in the background
External view of the connecting walkway from "New Venable" to Caudill Labs
Miles and miles of wires and pipes...
Future classrooms are beginning to take shape.
The above images chronologically depict the demolition of Venable Hall, followed by the site-preparation for and the construction of the Physical Sciences Building.
Follow the progress at the new Venable Hall construction site with our live webcam. The camera is located on the observation deck on top of Chapman Hall.
Although Old Venable Hall has been reduced to rubble, you still have an opportunity to retain a piece of the past, touch your memories and support Carolina Chemistry and the construction of New Venable Hall. We rescued a limited number of bricks from the east facade of Old Venable hall. Scrubbed meticulously clean and prepared to exacting standards by Alpha Chi Sigma volunteers, these rare artifacts are being offered to Venable alumni either as Chancellor's Edition Bricks, only 25 to be offered, Limited Edition Brick, only 250 to be offered, or as the Venable Brick Slice paper weight. Thank you for your continued support of UNC Chemistry.
To Donate to Chemistry and receive your Venable Hall memorabilia:
For additional information, please call 919-962-6193